Hiking

The Torrance Barrens has two main loop trails, the Main Trail and the Pine Ridge Loop Trail. Both of these hikes can be extended using the Barrens Extension. Please keep in mind that the Barrens' hiking paths are considered 'semi-wilderness'. Trails are sometimes flooded and are almost always muddy and buggy!

Main Trail: 3.5 km

The Main Trail circles the Highland Pond. A moderately

steep incline brings the trail up to a ridge, offering picturesque

views of the pond and the fens surrounding it. The trail then

descends to parallel a large marsh, offering a great opportunity

to spot turtles, frogs, snakes, and waterfowl.

Pine Ridge Loop Trail: 3.5 km

TEMPORARILY CLOSED

The Pine Ridge Loop Trail features several additional views

of some of the characteristic Barrens landscapes. The trail asc-

ends to a ridge which parallels the Southern shore of Pine Lake.

The Boardwalk connecting the Main Trail to the Pine Ridge Loop

in the eastern portion of the Reserve is no longer in operation.

Barrens Extension: 4.0 km

The Barrens extension can be added to either hike, and brings

the trail around an additional marsh, in which beaver activity can

often be detected. Be prepared for swampy terrain and bugs.

The Torrance Barrens hiking trails all begin from the main parking lot area off of the Southwood road (Muskoka Road 13). The first trail from the parking lot brings you to the dark sky viewing area. Head to the right, and you should see the beginning of the hiking trails near the shore of the marsh.